Theology of the Body: What is the mystery behind this theology?

The KL Archdiocesan Catechetical Ministry organised a formation at the Church of the Good Shepherd on May 4-6.

May 19, 2023

By Macline Fernandez
The KL Archdiocesan Catechetical Ministry organised a formation at the Church of the Good Shepherd on May 4-6. Forty participants, together with Fr Edwin Peter, attended this formation.

Andrew Kong spoke on Discovering the true meaning of the Human Body which gave a fundamental introduction to the Theology of the Body.

When Jesus died on the cross, it was an act of total giving of Himself in a redemptive love to the will of God, thus uniting Man with God. Jesus became the Bridegroom and we, the Church, the Bride. God, in His divine wisdom, designed that man should have this fulfilment of love, be it spousal or celibate love. The Sacrament of Matrimony parallels this giving of love – a gift of oneself, where two become one.

Gabriel Ho then spoke on the way to attain this union with God. He took the participants through the Ascetical grades of prayer and the Mystical grades of prayer which culminates in a union of the entire soul with God.

Many questions were raised regarding pornography, same sex attraction, chastity and self-control.

It was emphasised that the dignity of the body should always be upheld and respected. It should never be compromised. We are all created in the image of God, an embodied spirit and therefore have the responsibility to enhance our lives by seeking this union with God.

It was concluded that the teaching of the Theology of the Body should be introduced in the form of Progressive Education in the Church.

At the close of the session, Archbishop Julian Leow visited the participants and gave his blessings.